Want to sell online through your own website but not sure where to start? An e-commerce site adds a "buying system" on top of a normal website. Here's what to know before you begin — including the Thailand-specific bits.
1. What an online store needs
- Product pages — photos, details, price, options (size/colour).
- Cart & checkout — add items, enter address, confirm.
- Payments — card, PromptPay and bank transfer via a payment gateway.
- Stock & orders — inventory and order status.
- Shipping & tracking — connected couriers.
2. Extra costs to expect
Beyond the build, stores have recurring costs:
- Payment gateway fees (usually a % per transaction)
- Platform/plugin fees (e.g. Shopify/WooCommerce add-ons)
- Stronger hosting for traffic spikes
- Ongoing product/content updates
See the full picture in our website cost guide.
3. Your own site vs Shopee/Lazada
| Own website | Shopee / Lazada | |
|---|---|---|
| Getting started | Invest first | Easy / free |
| Fees | Payment only | % of every order |
| Branding | Full control | Limited |
| Audience | You attract it | Built-in shoppers |
💡 Doing both works best — use marketplaces to find new buyers, and your own site to build the brand and avoid fees.
4. Tips that sell
- High-quality product photos — images close the sale online.
- Fast load — slow sites lose carts instantly.
- Short checkout — fewer steps, more sales.
- Reviews & trust — show real reviews and clear contact.
- Mobile-first — most Thai shoppers buy on their phone.
Frequently asked questions
Is an online store pricier than a normal site?
Yes — the cart, payments and stock systems add work, and there are usually monthly system fees on top.
Own site or Shopee/Lazada first?
On a tight budget, start with a page showing products plus a LINE order button, then add a full cart as orders grow.
Can I take PromptPay payments?
Yes — PromptPay and bank transfer are easy to add via Thai payment gateways alongside cards.
Want an online store that looks pro and sells?
We plan a store that fits your business and budget. Free consult, quote within 24 hours.
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